Weird & Unusual Attractions in Pekanbaru, Indonesia
1. Gunung Padang Ancient Settlement
An enormous ancient settlement believed to be over 20,000 years old, featuring mysterious geometrical patterns and megalithic structures.
- Age: Older than most known civilizations
- Geometric Patterns: Intricate, unique patterns that remain a mystery
- Megalithic Structures: Huge stones arranged in unusual ways
2. Kebun Bijis Lohan Budo
A large, sacred fig tree believed to be over 500 years old, surrounded by a garden filled with Buddha statues.
- Age: One of the oldest trees in Pekanbaru
- Garden of Buddhas: Unusual combination of tree and statues
- Sacred Significance: Holds religious and cultural importance
3. Museum Keramik Sungai Rambutan
A museum dedicated to traditional pottery from the Rambutan River region, showcasing unique designs and techniques.
- Traditional Designs: Features patterns specific to the region
- River Connection: Inspired by the Rambutan River's natural beauty
- Artisanal Techniques: Demonstrates traditional pottery methods
4. Kampung Pelita Ketanan
A village dedicated to the cultivation of sticky rice, featuring unique farming techniques and traditional houses.
- Sticky Rice Specialization: One of the few villages focusing on this variety
- Traditional Houses: Preserves traditional Minangkabau architecture
- Unique Farming Techniques: Includes techniques not seen elsewhere
5. Batu Hitam Cave Temple
An ancient temple located inside a cave filled with hundreds of Buddha statues.
- Location Inside a Cave: Makes the temple unique and mysterious
- Number of Buddhas: Hundreds of statues create a breathtaking sight
- Ancient Significance: Dates back to the ancient Silk Road era
6. Gunung Leuser National Park
A national park home to the critically endangered Sumatran elephant and orangutan, featuring unique ecosystems.
- Endangered Species: Home to some of the rarest species on Earth
- Unique Ecosystems: Rainforests, swamps, and mountains create diverse habitats
- Wildlife Conservation Efforts: Contributes to the preservation of these species
7. Pekanbaru Night Zoo
A zoo open at night featuring nocturnal animals like owls and bats, as well as a unique safari experience.
- Nighttime Experience: Allows visitors to see nocturnal animals active
- Safari Ride: Offers a chance to get close to various animals
- Unique Animal Species: Features many species not found in other zoos
8. Sabangau Forest Reserve
A forest reserve protecting one of the world's largest remaining areas of undisturbed tropical peat swamp forest.
- Undisturbed Peat Swamp Forest: One of the few remaining in the world
- Wildlife Diversity: Supports a rich and diverse ecosystem
- Carbon Storage: Helps combat climate change by storing carbon
9. Wayang Umbul-Umbul
A traditional shadow puppet theater featuring unique stories and techniques.
- Unique Stories: Tells tales different from other shadow puppetry
- Techniques: Uses a unique method of lighting the puppets
- Cultural Significance: Preserves an important aspect of Indonesian culture
10. Jalan Gereja
A historic street lined with beautiful colonial-era churches and buildings.
- Colonial Architecture: Showcases European influence on Indonesian architecture
- Religious Diversity: Includes several Christian churches and mosques
- Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into Pekanbaru's past
11. Tebing Tinggi Waterfall
A massive waterfall located in the heart of a lush rainforest, offering a breathtaking natural sight.
- Size: One of the largest waterfalls in the region
- Rainforest Setting: Surrounded by rich, diverse flora and fauna
- Accessibility: A challenging yet rewarding hike to reach the waterfall
12. Teluk Kayu Api Beach
A unique beach featuring volcanic black sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Black Sand: Created by volcanic activity
- Clear Waters: Allows for excellent swimming and snorkeling
- Volcanic Landscape: Offers a stark, dramatic setting
13. Museum Kota Tinggi
A museum showcasing the history of the Minangkabau Kingdom, featuring unique artifacts and displays.
- Minangkabau History: Focuses on the culture and history of a distinct ethnic group
- Artifacts: Includes rare, culturally significant items
- Interactive Displays: Offers hands-on learning opportunities
14. Pekanbaru Floating Market
A market held on boats in a river, selling fresh produce and local delicacies.
- Floating Boats: Unique way to shop for food and goods
- Local Delicacies: Offers a chance to try traditional Indonesian foods
- River Setting: Creates a picturesque, tranquil atmosphere
15. Sungai Ulak Fishing Village
A traditional fishing village where fishermen still use traditional methods to catch fish.
- Traditional Fishing Methods: Features techniques passed down for generations
- Cultural Experience: Offers a glimpse into local life and traditions
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by mangrove forests and picturesque landscapes